Post-Surgery Joint Replacement Care at a Rehabilitation Facility

While some patients can go home soon after a joint replacement, others will require more care.

Before returning home after surgery, it’s important to know how use your crutches and to be able to get in and out of a chair.

Certain conditions increase the likelihood of requiring care in a rehabilitation center. These include bilateral joint replacement, arthritis in more than two joints, and a history of stroke.

Even if you and your doctor planned for you to go home right after surgery, it is possible you will need an extended stay in a rehabilitation facility to help you regain strength and recover enough to safely return home.

Here’s the type of care that you can expect from a quality care rehabilitation center.

• Physical Therapy

Physical therapy will help you reach your highest level of independent mobility while also learning how to prevent injury. Physical therapists will teach you how to get up and sit down in a chair and bed, navigate steps, keep your balance, and use your walker, cane, or crutches.

• Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is also important after joint replacement surgery to help you improve upon the command of daily activities. Depending on the joint replacement, you may need to relearn some everyday tasks such as putting your socks on or getting dressed.

• Registered Nurses

Skilled registered nurses will help with your medication and ensure your unique health needs are taken care of in an individualized plan. Whether you are a short stay patient or a long stay resident, The Cedars uses a relationship-based system of care to promote the wellbeing of everyone. Learn more about our skilled nursing program.

Before your surgery, it’s a good idea to find a qualified care facility–one that will be able to cater to your specific post-surgery needs. Check to make sure the facility staff has experience caring for others who have had the same surgery as you, and make sure they offer specialized care for patients who undergo the type of surgery that you will be having. This is important since specialized programs and care can help to expedite the healing process.

Remember to arrange for a rehabilitation facility prior to your surgery. Spaces tend to fill up fast, so be sure to visit and choose a center before your operation.

To arrange a tour of The Cedars, please contact our Admissions Director at (401) 944- 8500 or by email at lferschke@cedarsliving.com